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Oviatt Library E-News Winter 2013

Featured: Rare, Robust and Renovation Ready

With an ever-increasing number of resource materials, new modes of access, and an expanding physical footprint the Oviatt Library’s Special Collections and Archives is more visible and vibrant than ever.

The Oviatt Library with a Spiral Shaped Clock

What's Up: Glancing Back and Looking Ahead

A brief summary of last year’s vibrant programming schedule, and a quick glimpse of next year’s event calendar, clearly illustrates why the Oviatt Library continues to stand proudly and steadfast at the bustling crossroads of CSUN’s rich and diverse pedagogical landscape.  As 2013 comes to a close, it is a fitting time to reflect on some of the diverse and wide-reaching events that have taken place in the Library over the past year.

Picture of a person using an iPad

Oviatt Spotlight: Learning Commons Technology

Side by side Learning Commons Technology and Information Technology bring a variety of new and existing support services for students and faculty to one convenient and centrally located space.  The recently opened Learning Commons is home to a wide range of technology-based support services. And while many of these services were available in the Library’s former layout, they were not always readily apparent or easily accessible. The new, welcoming, open concept design of the Oviatt’s first floor has changed all of that.

Dean Mark Stover and Chinese Consulate Jian Liu

Thanks & Recognition: Chinese Consulate

A generous gift of learning resources from the Chinese Consulate to the Oviatt Library is reflective of a well-established partnership that exemplifies CSUN’s expanding role in the internationalization of higher education. Last summer Professor Justine Su, Director of CSUN’s China Institute, helped to facilitate the donation of more than 2,000 textbooks, CDs, DVDs, and various other interactive learning materials to the Oviatt Library.

Librarian Michael Barrett

We Would Like you to Meet: Michael Barrett

In the season and spirit of giving, we would like to introduce Michael Barrett, a member of the Oviatt family whose very presence has been an inspirational gift to the entire CSUN community for the last four decades.  Michael Barrett was born in Bakersfield, California, where he was raised on his family’s farm. After high school, he began his path into higher education close to home at Bakersfield College.

Dean Mark Stover

Message from the Dean: Regarding a Philanthropic Ecosystem

At this time of year, our hearts and minds often turn to giving.  Why is this so?  Some might posit that we think of gifts during this season because the fall and winter holidays often celebrated in the United States -- such as Thanksgiving, Hanukkah, and Christmas -- bring with them the spirit of giving. 

Others (perhaps the more cynical among us) believe that giving in December has more to do with the end-of-year tax benefits. Regardless the time of year, my own view is that most of us give because we are giving back.